Fresh Blood

Time for another addition of Fresh Blood. We get to the N’s now, and look at Newcastle and Norwich for any potential fantasy gems.

Newcastle United

Newcastle have made just the two relatively low key signings, in Gael Bigirimana (4.5) and Romain Amalfitano (4.5). Given that neither of them will break the first XI, I think neither are fantasy relevant and were signed for the future. Bigirimana, who plays as a defensive midfielder, will be hard pressed to slip past Cheik Tiote (5.0) for a berth in the side. Amalfitano plays as an attacking mid, and seeing as he has to push past the likes of Cabaye (7.0) to get into the side, I won’t be going near him.

One big name Newcastle have been linked with however is Mathieu Debuchy, who was named as the Ligue 1 right-back of the year. If he joins Newcastle he will be immense, and would mean that Ryan Taylor (5.5) and Danny Simpson (5.0) would immediately be ineffective picks.

Norwich City

Norwich have also made the two additions to their squad, in Steven Whittaker (4.5) and Jacob Butterfield (5.0).

Whittaker, a 28 yr old right-back signed for free from Rangers, would probably spend the majority of the season as first choice. “He’s a lock then!” I hear you say. Hmmm… Nah. Norwich’s defensive record is poor at best, having recorded only 3 clean sheets all last season. And that was with wonder-manager Paul Lambert. Based on this fact, I’m steering clear.

Jacob Butterfield Is seen as a long-term prospect for Norwich, after the young midfielder starred for Barnsley last year. I’m steering clear for one reason- He did his ACL on New Years Eve. So even if he does come back, he’ll be eased in slowly. Pass on Norwich on the whole this year. I won’t be expecting much.

As always lords, tweet me any questions and I’ll get back to you ASAP.